HMRC have a tax credits Intermediaries Helpline (0845 300 3946) for advisers from the third sector, ie those dealing with pro bono work, to discuss a claim on behalf of a client. They aim to provide advice and explanations and resolve the matter wherever possible. Advisers will need to have authorisation from the client to act on their behalf. HMRC's statement follows. HMRC's STATEMENT BEGINS
Advisers will need to have authorisation from the client to act on their behalf.
You can do this by
1. Sending a written authorisation to us on a TC689 or your organisation’s own form if it contains the same information.
We’ll note your organisation as an intermediary on the customer’s tax credits record.
2. Registering your organisation with us for an office identification number. This will allow you to fax a TC689 to us when there is an urgent need to discuss a client’s claim. We’ll note the details on the customer’s record and telephone you to confirm you have authority to ring the Helpline. You can use this for tax credits and Child Benefit.
To register, write to us on a letterhead showing the full name, address including postcode and a telephone and fax number not available to the public if possible to HMRC, Tax Credits, External Relations Team, Preston PR1 0SB.
3. The Intermediaries Helpline also has a textphone. If the client is with you in the office, you can ring the helpline and speak to one of our staff who will then confirm the client’s identity and their authorisation for the adviser to deal with the call on their behalf. This will only apply for the duration of the call.
The textphone number is 0151 676 7183
Additional information
The TC689 authorisation form for tax credits and Child Benefit is available for downloading from our website at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/forms/tc689.pdf
The Child Benefit Intermediaries Helpline number is 0845 302 1411
Both Intermediaries Helplines are open Monday – Friday 09.00 a.m. to 05.00 p.m.
Helplines for Customers open 7 days a week 08.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m.
Tax credits
0845 300 3900
0845 300 3909 (Textphone)
Chid Benefit
0845 302 1444
0845 302 1474 (Textphone)
HMRC's STATEMENT ENDS
Technical Team
